Cooperative Superintendency Program

All applicants must have

• A master’s degree.
• Mid-management certification.
• 2 years of experience as a principal and/or central office administrator.

We encourage submitting a Nomination Form before beginning your formal application. Candidates may be nominated or may nominate themselves. We make great efforts to obtain a large, diverse pool of applicants.

Submit all required application materials including the following documents to your MyStatus page to complete the application process by the application deadline of December 1st.

• A Professional/Personal Vita in CSP format: Available in the Application Checklist.
• Official Transcripts
• GRE Score
• Three Professional References
• Statement of Purpose: Double-spaced, not to exceed three pages.
• The Self-Presentation:
  • The self‑presentation allows the selection committee to gain a meaningful understanding of you as a leader and professional. In 3–6 double‑spaced pages, reflect on your personal and professional journey by describing your strengths and challenges, accomplishments and setbacks, as well as your assets and areas for growth as you consider the prospect of selection.
  • Be authentic and thoughtful in your reflection. Use concrete examples and evidence to illustrate your experiences and perspectives. Write in your own voice—clarity and sincerity are valued, while artificial or overly polished responses may detract from your message.
  • Self‑reflection is an engaging and rewarding process, and we encourage you to approach this task with openness and confidence.
  • Please format your document as follows:
    • First line: SELF‑PRESENTATION
    • Second line: Your Name
  • Then proceed with the body of your essay.

Program Application Fee

All applicants are required to pay a $50 Program Application Fee (check or money order ONLY – no cash) to

Department of Educational Leadership and Policy, ATTN: ELP Accounting
The University of Texas at Austin, SZB 3.308
1912 Speedway, D5400
Austin, TX 78712-0374

Candidate name and UT EID must be indicated on the check or money order

Please note this fee is separate from the Graduate School application fee.

Download our Application Checklist and Timeline

All applications are reviewed by the department to identify candidates for admission.

Applicants who meet all program and Graduate School requirements and are determined to be a strong fit for the department will be notified by late January and invited to participate in a mandatory assessment center held in Austin in February. The assessment center includes interviews, leadership simulation exercises, and presentations.

Attendance at the assessment center is required for all selected candidates. Participants are responsible for their own travel, lodging and meals.

Final admission decisions are based on candidates’ overall performance during the assessment process. Members of the incoming Cooperative Superintendency cohort will be notified by late March, with classes beginning in early June.